David Rodgers MSDC

David is passionate about working wood using traditional methods and regards design as a fundamental part of his working process.

He works slowly, using his hands, making a limited quantity of items, from either one-off pieces of wood or shorter runs from a specific piece of timber. Form and function go hand-in-hand; he is not a factory producing a fixed range of items.

David has worked with wood for over 14 years, but his passion for the medium is undimmed. He loves the varying texture and characteristics of each piece of timber, particularly on some of his locally- sourced English hardwoods; which originate from places such as the Ashridge Estate (National Trust). He, quite literally, turns these into beautiful and functional items.

His items are made on a wood turning lathe that spins the wood around; and he then employs hand-held cutting tools (gouges, skews etc) for shaping. No computer controlled machines/CNC: just skills learned through years of working with wood.

He does not regard his diagnosis of postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS - an autonomic condition) and related conditions as a drawback. He may have to work seated and make a smaller quantity of items, but this gives him a chance to think more carefully about each item he crafts. Disability does not necessarily mean inability, even if the disability is invisible.

Memberships

• Bucks Art Weeks
• Association of Wood Turners
• ​Heritage Crafts Association
• Regional Furniture Society
• Society of Designer Craftsmen MSDC